This week the College collaborated with the British Computing Society (BCS), by hosting an inspiring Safer Internet Day event at the Loxton Campus, bringing together learners, staff, technologists, policymakers, and digital experts to explore responsible digital navigation and harness the full potential of online spaces for learning and growth.

The event, which was held on the national Safer Internet Day, Tuesday, 6th February, at the College’s celebrated Loxton Campus, treated students to a series of compelling talks by renowned experts in the field. The guest speakers shared their expertise in a highly creative space showcasing work from A level Fashion and Art students, to inspire creative thinking on topics such as online trust, safety, cybersecurity, education, and public benefit - encouraging students to think critically about their online presence.

The guest speakers included:

Prof. Victoria Baines FBCS, Online Trust, Safety, and Cybersecurity Expert, Julia Adamson MBE, Managing Director Education and Public Benefit at BCS, Clare Moody, Co-Chief Executive, Equally Ours; and Daniel Aldridge, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at BCS.

Following the captivating talks, learners were actively involved in a task that encouraged them to identify real-world problems that individuals encounter in digital spaces. This engaging exercise aimed to empower them to think proactively about online challenges and find innovative solutions. The students enthusiastically collaborated, sharing ideas and experiences while actively participating in the discussion.

The feedback session that followed showcased student creativity and problem-solving skills, as they presented their identified issues and proposed practical solutions. The interactive nature of the task not only made the learning experience enjoyable but also provided a platform for students to express their thoughts and insights on safer internet practices. In doing so, the panel is now able to take the voices of our students directly to the heart of Westminster, providing further insight into the big tech companies at the same time.   

Daniel Aldridge, a former Weston College A Level student and current Head of Policy and Public Affairs at BCS who made such a fantastic day possible said: “Safer Internet Day is a day across the UK to champion people and organisations that are making the internet safer.”

“Every year we come together to talk about how we can make the internet safer so everyone can thrive not just survive online. This year we chose to host our national focus event at Weston College”.

After the student interaction opportunity, an engaging community networking session followed, where our staff, together with the panel, had the chance to connect with industry professionals and local businesses to explore what a digital future might look like for Weston-super-Mare, and the West of England as a whole, in terms of ‘Place.’

"I don't think that the general public, civil societies, and politicians have quite grasped the need for a change in digital skills and IT literacy. It's about having the base level of digital skills – because without it we are not going to be able to survive in our digital environment.”

“That’s why Further Education Colleges like Weston College play a fundamental role in cascading knowledge and expertise across our communities.”

Professor Victoria Baines FBCS explained to us the vital role that young people play in modern technology. “Who are the people that know most that technology has changed? It’s the young members of society particularly learners that are engaging with digital media.

“They're the people we need. They are the people that can tell us what we need to be worried about, how we can protect them and their communities”. She added.

Jacqui Ford Interim Principal at the College added “Our students have really enjoyed the chance to get their voices heard with such an influential panel, delivering the event’s theme of ‘local action, inspiring global change’. A huge thank you goes to BCS and Dan, and all the incredible guests who gave us such a fantastic, insightful Safer Internet Day! 

If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.

We are proud to announce that one of our outstanding T Level students, Katy Bateman, has been selected to participate in a national campaign organised by the Department for Education. Katy, currently in her second year of the T Level program, has been chosen to represent the Education pathway. 

The filming team visited Katy at the College in December and filmed a captivating "day in the life" piece for Snapchat, that will prominently feature on Snapchat's Explore page as part of a paid-for national campaign to showcase real young people navigating their technical education pathways. This campaign, set to go live today, aims to inspire and inform millions of young individuals across England, with an expected audience reach of 5.8 million people aged 14-19. 

Katy shared her excitement about being part of this initiative, stating, "The filming experience was really interesting and something I've never done before. I found it quite fun!" Katy is currently undertaking her T Level Education placement at Grove Junior School, where she is immersed in the vibrant environment of Year 3 education.  

Looking ahead, Katy has ambitious plans for her future. After completing her T Level, she intends to take a gap year to explore different facets of education, including volunteering at a local forest school. Subsequently, she aims to pursue further studies at University Centre Weston (UCW), focusing on education, society, and childhood. 

Well done Katy for flying the flag for T Levels and Weston College – we are so proud of all you have achieved so far and the exciting future that awaits you, take a look at the ad here: 

For more information about Weston College and our T Level programs, please visit T Levels | Weston College 

If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.

Weston College and University Centre Weston (UCW) proudly announces its participation in LGBT History Month this February, with a series of engaging events and initiatives designed to foster inclusivity and celebrate diversity within our campus communities. 

The College invites staff and learners to partake in a range of activities aimed at promoting understanding, dialogue, and solidarity. 

LGBTea & Talk: 

Providing an open platform for staff and learners to engage in meaningful conversations with members of the LGBTQ+ community at Weston College. Participants will have the opportunity to join general discussions, share experiences, seek information, and participate in fun Q&A sessions. The sessions will be held at: 

• Knightstone Campus: Monday 26th and Wednesday 28th February 12:15-13:15 – near reception 
• Loxton Campus: Tuesday, February 27th, 12:30-13:30 – in the Bistro (near the windows)  

LGBT Cinema Screenings: 

Adding cinematic flair to the festivities, Loxton Campus will host screenings of iconic LGBTQ+ films, including "Pride" (2014) and "Love, Simon" (2018), in Room A108 - the TV Studio. These screenings offer an opportunity for the College community to enjoy compelling narratives that celebrate the LGBTQ+ experience. 

LGBT Logo Competition: 

We’re inviting students from UCW and Weston College to design an LGBT-themed logo for us to use. The winning design, chosen by a panel of judges, will not only earn the designer a voucher but also have the honour of being adopted as the official logo for the College Group. 

Raffle & LGBT Cake Auction: 

To further support LGBTQ+ causes and raise awareness, we will host a raffle and LGBT cake auction during the week commencing February 26th, with the draw taking place on February 29th. Proceeds from these fundraising efforts will be donated to Young Minds, an organisation dedicated to supporting the mental health of young people, while also contributing to initiatives that promote understanding and acceptance within the LGBTQ+ community. 

Speaking about the month-long celebration, Interim Principal Jacqui Ford expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "LGBT History Month is a time to celebrate the richness and diversity of our community while recognising the challenges that many individuals still face. Through our diverse range of events and initiatives, we aim to create an environment where everyone feels respected, valued, and supported." 

With a commitment to fostering an inclusive and welcoming campus environment, Weston College Group continues to champion diversity and equality, ensuring that every member of its community feels empowered to thrive. 

For more information on Weston College Group's LGBT History Month celebrations, please email LGBT@weston.ac.uk. 

If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.